Friday 14 December 2012

Santa Paws Is Comin' To Town.

Hi there, yes it's me, Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar!  Gary, the human I so kindly allow to live with me, has asked me if I would grace this site by doing a 'pawsting', I mean, posting.

Ah, "tis' the season to be jolly".  Goodwill to all man and animals, alike.  Yet I know that this time of the year can be even more pronounced for those in pain.  For those who only know desperation, solitude and feel like spectators peering out from tear-stained windows at the celebration of others.

Gary is sick and he knows that his sickness is not some sort of bizarre competition.  The, "I'm sicker than you", mentality does not come into the equation.  He knows it's not a contest.  Everyone's hopes, dreams, pains and concerns are just as valid as the next.

Gary has told me how humbled and inspired he has been by the interaction he receives from those who are in pain and yet their selfless, altruistic attitude is about being of support for others who are needing words of encouragement, of comfort.

On Christmas Day,  three years ago, Gary stayed online on a mental health website "chat room" for almost the entire day.   He was there for the lonely, the sad and those who just wanted to talk.  Now, with my support, we are going to be available on this Christmas Day.  If anybody wants to email us, the contact details can be found in the "About Me" section on this blog.   We will do a further reminder about this just before Christmas Day.

We want to be here for you as you have been here for us.  Oh yes, when we help each other, we help ourselves.

Pawsitive wishes, Penny.

69 comments:

  1. Penny you and Gary are both superstars. Here in Australia I will spend time on the crisis lines over the Christmas period. As you know these holidays can be difficult for so many people - the sick, the lonely, the bereaved.

    I am thrilled to see a pawsting from you since Jazz n Jewel are way too selfish to reach out to anyone. Unless of course it is to smack them into remembering their responsibilities to the black beasts themselves.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi The Elephant's Child,

      Very nice of you to think that I and my human are superstars. What you are doing is most admirable and big respect to you for being there for those who need some comfort. A telephone line's like a lifeline. Bless you for that.

      I see Jazz n Jewel have their priorities. Still, you know they love you and make sure you attend to their every whim :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  2. Daysery true - we do indeed help ourselves in the process of helping someone else. It's a beautiful thing. And you, dear friend, are a beautiful person for all that you so openly offer others in pain. Bless you. May you see brighter days with less worry in the year ahead!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And yeah, I'm not too swift here using this new phone lol That should begin with *So very true !

      Delete
    2. Hi Kim,

      Here's me thinking you had invented some new kind of human language or perhaps using some 'Chicaga' slang :) Gary and myself shall do our best to be online on Christmas Day to respond to any emails. Be those emails from the sad, the lonely, or just somebody who wants to chat. We both know how tough the day can be.

      We will try to be there for others and we have been blessed by them and your good self. Gary and I visualise that new adventure you so crave.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  3. What a wonderful thing to do for others! Penny, tell Gary that is an incredibly giving and selfless act and not only will others benefit, but he will as well. He is really making a difference.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Alex,

      And what a lovely thing to say, my kind human friend. I shall forward on your uplifting message to my human, Gary. We will do all we can to be there for others on Christmas Day. It will be the exchanging of gifts of caring and understanding.

      You are an inspiration and we both feel blessed to know you. You are part of the difference that is going to make this a better world.

      In peace and pawsitivity, Penny

      Delete
  4. Thank you Penny. It is indeed very nice of you to let Gary stay with you. You will not be sorry as he is just as awesome as you are.
    A friend of mine always thought that Holidays were dark times as while we were working in customer service we would watch people being ungrateful for the gifts that they got. I used to tell her that like most times Holidays are not here to stay as the world turns and brings us all kinds of times anyway.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Munir,

      Thank you, my wonderful human friend. Yes, you're right, Gary is awesome and thus, I shall continue to let him live with me :)

      Ah yes, the holidays need not be thought of as dark times. We move on and know that the simplest of things have joy to behold.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  5. That's a great idea! That picture makes me feel sorry for Penny though. Poor dogs getting dressed up in those terrible sweaters and hats and the like this year.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi PT,

      We think it's a good way of giving back to others and find mutual encouragement. Fair comment and I understand how you might think my human might have put me on display in some tacky angle. However, I was okay with it and I got some very nice treats out of the deal. Try dressing up my human. Now that's a disaster!

      Pawsitive wishes and happy writing, Penny

      Delete
  6. The Elephant Man's correct, Penny, you and Gary are superstars. I have family I love and yet I feel sad at Christmas. It's not something I can turn off and on, so boy do I thank my lucky stars that I found this blog. Blessings to you, Penny and to Gary. Please give Gary an extra special nudge from me. I'm sending the best wishes possible. Merry Christmas!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Joylene,

      You are so very kind to the both of us. Gary and I know just how difficult a time this can be for so many. We hope that we can be here for you as you have always been here for us, Joylene. You are a marvel and we can get through this by helping each other. I've given Gary a special nudge on your behalf. Of course, he thought that was his cue to get me some well deserved doggy treats :)

      Merry Christmas and thank you for your kind, thoughtful wishes.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  7. Penny, Please tell Gary what a wonderful human being he is to reach out to others. I know that he is constantly helping people, but it is even more meaningful during the holidays. I hope that Gary feels better, and wishing you both a very Merry Christmas. Julie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Julie,

      Thank you, dear lady. I shall tell Gary what a wonderful human being he is. He knows and I know, that we need to help those who need some kind words at a time when they may feel so very alone. Nobody need feel alone and your goodness resonates in your comment, Julie.

      Gary is feeling better in knowing that rather than dwelling in sadness on Christmas Day, we can all be a force to help each other. Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  8. Hi Penny - that's a great idea - and obviously it was so helpful to so many a few years ago .. people just need company and someone to care - to take them out of themselves if possible.

    This Christmas will not be easy for so many .. as your header shows - that river of life is full, and dangerously running with overflowing cold.

    I'll definitely try and remember to clock in and say hi to you ... I shall be away for the day - however in the meantime I hope Penny you can cuddle up to Gary and warm his soul, easing his way through these dark days.

    With many thoughts to you both from a very wet Eastbourne .. have a peaceful week ahead ... with thoughts - Hilary

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Hilary,

      Thank you and I know that Gary spent all day long that Christmas three years ago, trying to be of support to the sad and the disillusioned.

      A most profound analogy of the header.

      You have been most kind in your emails that you share with Gary. I know how grateful he is for receiving them. I am glad you will be busy on Christmas Day. If you have a chance to interact, that would be wonderful. Gary has received a cuddle from me.

      With peaceful wishes to you from a cold and rainy Leek.

      Thank you, Hilary.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  9. It is lovely to see you looking so Christmassy, Penny. Tell your Gary that he's a lovely human being and if more people were like him (and dogs like you) this world would be a far better place xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Teresa,

      Thank you and it's lovely to have seen Indy so Christmassy! :)

      Okay, I shall tell my human Gary that he is a lovely human being. Of course, I will insist he gives me a doggy treat :) Indy and your kind human self are what's going to help make our sad and confused planet a better place.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  10. Great to see Penny getting in the Christmas spirit.

    Thanks for joining my followers, I restarted the other week but unfortunately Hypster.com that supplied my music is having problems so no music which I miss awfully.

    Enjoy your week-end.
    Yvonne.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Yvonne,

      I'm well into the Christmas spirit and I'm giving hints to my human to put up the decorations.

      Good to be able to follow your site. I hope you can rectify your music applications on your blog.

      Hope you had a lovely weekend.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  11. Those that give get back even more. You are proof of that Gary.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ray,

      Hello, my human friend. To give is to receive. When we help others, we help ourselves.

      Keep embracing those positive possibilities.

      In pawsitivity, Penny

      Delete
  12. Why am I not surprised to hear that you and Gary will spend Christmas at the service of others? Bless you for being there for those in need of comfort.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Delores,

      Gary and myself know that being there for others at this time can be a vital lifeline to them. Gary, instead of staring at the four walls on Christmas Day, knows that we can make an important difference to the lonely. Thank you, Delores.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  13. What a great, self-less idea. Totally you, Gary and Penny! I can't count the times that your support has gotten me through the day. Knowing that someone understands and is in the rocking boat, desperately helping me to cling to sanity and holding my hand with me as I struggle with this crippling depression means so much to me. You're a gem, Gary.
    Tina @ Life is Good
    http://kmdlifeisgood.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Tina,

      Very nice of you to say. Gary and I discreetly work in the background and we do our best to be of support and understanding to those who are in pain. Tina, you share the gift of empathy with us and in turn, we share that empathy back.

      We know that we must try to live with, rather than suffer from the depression that tries to sabotage our lives. You are remarkable, Tina and we are privileged to know you.

      Glad you like the photo. Gary took it from near the harbour, just before the sun set, at Cardigan, Wales, about ten days ago.

      Keep smiling, my human friend.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  14. P.S LOVE the new photo. Where was that taken?
    Tina

    ReplyDelete
  15. To give is to receive, how true this can be. It is a wonderful thing you and Gary are doing for others.

    Blessings to you both :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Suzanne,

      You are so right and we thank you for your kindness.

      Peaceful blessings to you, my dear human friend.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  16. Hi Penny, always good to read your posts. Sorry your human friend is not feeling his best and I hope he knows I cherish his online presence along with his honesty. Holidays have always been emotionally difficult for me, ever since I was a teen and it is good to know that there are resources for those like me during those times. Thank you, I will certainly check out the forum info and pass it along.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Madison,

      Glad you like reading my pawsts, sorry, posts! :) My human is feeling better knowing he can try to be of help to others via his discreet online presence. I know he values your heartfelt and encouraging interaction.

      We both know how vital positive resources and distractions can be for us. Gary and I will be here on Christmas Day to reply to any emails. Whether they be from the sad, the lonely or somebody who just wants to chat. This can be a powerful and healing time. Madison, you know that nobody need be alone. All in this together, sharing and caring.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  17. Penny, you and Gary are both superstars and I'm so glad to know you. The very best of everything to you and the humans you live with, Merry Christmas and a Pawsitive 2013!
    Laura
    x
    p.s. Beest says, "Ngah." (If you speak Beestese, that means "Feed me"- she's not nearly as altruistic as you are.)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Laura,

      Why thank you, my lovely human friend. We consider you to be a superstar of sincerity and a desire to realise a better world.

      May this Christmas and 2013, bring much joy and contentment to you and what the heck, even "Beest" :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  18. Hi Penny (and Gary, your human),
    How like you and Gary, Penny, to think of others at this at once most celebratory and demanding time of year. So, as Christmas gets ever closer, I think I'll be thinking of you two (and Tristan) as I raise some Yuletide cheer and have a little sip of sherry (or beer, or whatever).
    Still, remember to look after yourselves too on these cold Winter nights. And, of course, your good friend Dave is always here to speak to, if you so wish. Arf! Arf!
    Hoping you all have a wonderful, special Christmas.
    Very Best Wishes,
    David.
    P.S. Could you please tell Gary for me, that his Christmas card, if it hasn't reached him yet, is in the post.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi David,

      Thank you my hairy human friend. We shall try to be there for others during Christmas Day. With these times of austerity, I know the pain is more pronounced. Seems you might well be into the Christmas spirit and I shall raise a bowl of water in your honour.

      We will look after ourselves. If we don't take care of ourselves, we aren't much help to anybody else. My human shall talk to you soon. How thrilling for you. Gary received your card on Saturday and he thanks you. Hope you received the card from him.


      Peaceful and pawsitive wishes to you and your loved ones, Penny

      Delete
  19. That's such an admirable thing to do.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi The Golden Eagle,

      We appreciate that and we hope you had a peaceful weekend.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  20. Gary and Penny that is the most BEAUTIFUL thing I have ever heard. You are TRULY giving the most wonderful gift that you can give, the gift of YOURSELF and helping others. I am brought to tears by this.
    I wish my step daughter's friend had known you, she committed suicide last week by "huffing"
    xoxooxoxxo
    You are both Angels

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Caren and Cody,

      Gary and myself are deeply touched by what you have written on so many levels of emotion.

      My human has felt such pain through the torment of his mental illness. Yet, with my help and the caring of so many, I see him work through the anguish as we both try to give the gift of being there for others.

      I am profoundly saddened to read of your step daughter's friend. To reach out, to offer understanding and caring to someone who feels trapped in relentless despair, can create the gift of hope. We all must realise that our thoughts, our dreams, our hopes and desires, are all equally valid.

      Caren, you are a marvel and we both are immensely grateful for your kindness.

      Peaceful and pawsitive wishes to you both, Penny xx

      Delete
  21. A poignant Post reminding us that being there for others is so very important and is Love in Action. I can feel very conflicted during the Holidays since it can make me miss those who are absent all the more... but at the same time alternately finding Joy... it can make for an emotional rollercoaster to say the least.

    Penny is adorable... the unconditional Love of our Fur Babies is Priceless and as Humans we could learn so much from their Loyalty & expression of Love.

    Dawn... The Bohemian

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Dawn,

      Thank you and this time of the year can make one experience all sorts of emotions. Joy, reflection, sadness and longing.

      Thank you for thinking I'm adorable :) Indeed, we animals share unconditional, non-judgemental love. We have lessons to teach humanity. If only humanity would truly listen.

      I hope you soon get your template issues sorted out. Blogger yuck!

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  22. What a lovely little helper. Sure Santa is pretty proud of him.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Angelika,

      Very kind of you to say. Santa is most proud of what I do. Thank you and wonderful photos on your blog :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  23. I am glad that you will be there for those who need it this Christmas, as it can be a very difficult time of year for many. Take some time for yourselves also, Penny and Gary. I hope you have a good Christmas.

    Another thumbs up for the new photo.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Lost in Space,

      We know this will be a profound and worthy endeavour. Christmas sure can be a trying time for so many. We will take time for ourselves. For as you know, looking after our physical and mental well being is extremely important.

      May you have a peaceful and inspiring Christmas. Glad you like the photo of Cardigan, Wales.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  24. Hey sexy. It's me, Beau the magnificent. Mom's "down" again. I think it's 80% diubeatus and 30% deprezzion and 10% the fact I don't know my math. But as long as you R there, mr. klany is lucky.

    Dad and mom don't have any prezzents under the tree. They don't even have a tree! But I will have lotz and lotz of prezzents cuz they are like that. They get happy watchun me rip open my giffs and they wonder how i know they R for ME.

    I will email you on Kissmus cuz you need me. right?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey Beau the magnificent,

      It appears your Mum might well be feeling rather down due to a combination of physical and mental ailments. Yes, your math equals 120%. Beau, we both know that being there for our humans can make such a difference in their outlooks.

      Your Mum and Dad sure display such love and affection towards you. I know they receive such unconditional love from you. Then, you go and rip open them giffs they gave y'all. We aint got no decorations up and we wonder why we bother anyway. Highly unlikely we get visitors. Still, what the heck eh Beau. My two humans and me could stare at the Christmas tree. Then I could knock the tree over! :)

      We would be honoured if you wish to interact via an email Beau, me thinks you need me as much as I need you.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  25. What a wonderful thing to do.

    And I think Penny looks cute all dressed for the holidays.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi L. Diane Wolfe,

      Lovely to see you and we know this can be a very important link to those who need to chat on what can be the loneliest day of the year.

      Glad you like my Santa suit :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  26. Well, Penny, that's nice that he does that. A lot of people are in pain this time of year for many different reasons. Personally, I try to help people, in pain, too, this time of year. I think we could all help each other out a lot if we just make a little effort.

    P.S. Nice outfit. Give my best to Gary.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kelly,

      Thank you and I know from what Gary tells me, that you are a fine gentleman who displays the gift of altruism. We should all try to help each other. To ignore the plight of others only leads to a more apathetic, uncaring world. Yes, you know that a little effort goes a long way.

      Glad you like my outfit. I shall pass on your good wishes to Gary. You would not believe the outfit he's wearing...

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  27. Dear, dear Penny, I'm so glad Gary has you to help him in times of need and to make him laugh. And may I say you look stunning in your Christmas outfit.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dear River,

      Thank you and I have a way of making him laugh even in the toughest of moments. Gary and I will do our utmost to be here for anybody who wants or needs to chat on Christmas Day. You may indeed say I look stunning in my Christmas outfit :) As for Gary, he just looks stunned! :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  28. Such an amazing idea! Praying for you, Gary, that you have a blessed Christmas and that you have wisdom and the ability to reach many lives who need it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Misha,

      We thank you for that. I know that Gary feels he must be here for others as they have been here for him. And Misha, thank you for your kind Christmas wishes. Please know we want you feeling better and may Christmas me a most joyous time for you.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  29. You are wonderful, Gary and Penny! You post is spot on. The holidays are a tough time of year for a lot of people. May God bring you many blessings for your selflessness. (hugs)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Sharon,

      Awe, thank you. And my human,Gary, is pretty wonderful! :) We know how difficult a time this can be for those who are in pain. We believe that we can make a difference. Thank you, Sharon and the positive blessings are warmly embraced.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  30. It's so important to remember that not everyone is in a situation where peace and joy are easily achieved. I've taught many kids over the years who've not been happy about having to stay home for 2 weeks. I always try to set them up with good books, free activities to attend and places to go where they can find a little solitude or friendship. I wish you and your family peace and joy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Jemi,

      It is most admirable of you to try to ensure the school children are occupied with positive distractions. This, I know, means the world to them. Bless you for your kindness to the children.

      It is indeed important to notice that not all are having a good time and are struggling with their pain. If we can supply them with a modicum of comfort, that is one heck of a inspirational outcome. May you and your loved ones have a peaceful, positive holiday season.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  31. Penny, ya li'l goof, how the heck are ya?! You're looking wonderful. That color does wonderful things for your eyes...

    Please tell Gary that I'm wishing him the best.

    Meowy Christmas. :-)

    Pearl

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Pearl,

      You lovable human, how's it goin', eh? Of course, the red of the Santa hat enhances the alluring colour of my eyes :)

      I shall forward on your best wishes to my human, Gary. And we wish you a magical Minneapolis Christmas!

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  32. Oh, Penny, red is your color! You look beautiful, girl. I hope you and Gary have a wonderful Christmas. Bless you for wanting to reach out to other people.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Susan,

      Agreed, red is my colour! Agreed, I look beautiful! Um, note my shyness :) We hope you have a terrific Christmas, full of peace and joy. Helping those who need help is a positive result, all round. Thank you, Susan.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  33. Gary and Penny!!! My words can not convey what an amazing duo you both are, and of course, you are both great on your own, but the two of you together are inspirational. I'm so happy that you take time to bring such joy to others and this comes back to you ten fold.
    Victoria has snow on the horizon, however, we both know West Coast snow which ends up being a sprinkle of white that is gone in an hour. I want to wish you the best Christmas ever.
    Hugs,
    Suzanne
    PS: And yes, I agree with Susan. Penny, red is definitely your color. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Suzanne Bean,

      Thank you, Suzanne! We do try to make an amazing duo. We do our best to inspire. Naturally, Gary understands I'm the better writer, but the important thing is we both try to be here for others. We firmly believe that we must reach out to those in need and those who just what a good old chat. We can make this happen :)

      I've heard about your sprinkling of snow. This means total traffic chaos in Victoria! :)

      Peace and hugs to you for a lovely Christmas in the beautiful city of Victoria. I might just wear red more often :)

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  34. I hope you and Gary have pawfectly awesome holiday season!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Samantha,

      Thank you, my lovely human friend. May you rejoice in the ambience of a peaceful and happy holiday season. And thanks for the p.s., my Dad is a well meaning guy and I know, just like me, he is totally sincere in his desire to be here for others. And thanks again for that lovely e-card and your warm email interaction you had with my human, Gary.

      Pawsitive wishes and doggy kisses, Penny xx

      Delete
  35. p.s. Penny, you have an awesome and very giving Dad!

    ReplyDelete

I do try to comment back to each commenter individually. However, I might have to shorten my replies or give a group thank you. That way, I can spend more time commenting on your blogs. Thank you and peace, my friend.